Budapest named World’s best ‘workcation’ city for 2024

As hybrid working rises, fueling longer ‘workcations’ that offer greater flexibility over how and where employees work, Budapest has been named the best ‘workcation’ city in the world by International Workplace Group’s (IWG) second annual Work from Anywhere Barometer. The Hungarian capital city has surpassed competition from the likes of New York, Berlin and Singapore, according to IWG’s data. Other Asian cities featured in the study include Beijing, Jakarta, Mumbai, Manila, and Hong Kong.

‘Workcations,’ where travellers combine work and leisure at their destinations to prolong holidays, have surged in popularity since hybrid working became the de facto working model for many. IWG highlights that more than four in five (84%) hybrid workers have, or would consider, extending a holiday to work remotely from their chosen destination.

With over 4,000 flexible office locations in more than 120 countries, International Workplace Group’s network includes 30 ‘workcation’ cities that have been marked against 10 key criteria to create the second annual Work from Anywhere Barometer. Each location was awarded a mark out of 10 on climate, culture, accommodation, transport, food & drink, happiness, broadband speed, sustainability and the availability of flexible workspaces.

Top 10 Best Cities for Workcations

Singapore rises in global ‘workcation’ rankings – (70.5/100)

Surpassing other major Asian cities like Jakarta (#8), Mumbai (#14), Manila (#16) and Hong Kong (#19), Singapore climbed an impressive 14 spots from last year to clinch 7th place in this year’s top ten, by merit of its high scores in five key areas – broadband quality, food, happiness, culture, and sustainability. Home to the second-best airport in the world, IWG says that the metropolitan city serves as the global gateway to Southeast Asia, perfect for digital nomads and travellers looking to further explore this dynamic region.

Named the happiest country in Asia for the second year running, and well on track to offer islandwide 5G coverage by 2025, IWG adds that it’s unsurprising that Singapore has become a hub for digital nomads and hybrid workers alike.

The ‘Little Red Dot’ also punches above its weight as a culinary and events destination, enhancing its appeal for both work and play. Singapore came in 7th for countries with the highest number of Michelin-rated restaurants per capita and has hosted major events such as the Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix and Taylor Swift’s The Eras Tour – the singer’s only Southeast Asia stop on her world tour.

Budapest is Buda-best – (75/100)

Securing high marks for transport and accommodation prices, broadband speeds, and availability of flexible workspaces, Budapest stands out in IWG’s study as the top destination for hybrid workers in 2024. Situated in the heart of Central Europe and set against the stunning backdrop of the Danube River, the Hungarian capital is known for its classical architecture, attracting some 12 million international tourists per year. The city boasts over 200 museums and galleries, vibrant neighbourhoods, and ample green spaces, making it an ideal choice for digital nomads seeking a balance of work and leisure.

Barcelona bumped from top spot – (73.5/100)

IWG’s top workcation destination in 2023, Barcelona, remains a favoured spot for hybrid workers, offering a lively atmosphere, stunning architecture, and nearly year-round sunshine. The city has become a popular hub for those seeking a diverse work environment which combines sun, sea, and sand with a cosmopolitan atmosphere. Spain’s wide-ranging digital nomad visa, along with Barcelona’s excellent transportation infrastructure and relatively affordable cost of living, ensures it remains a prime workcation destination.

Rio rising – (73.5/100)

According to IWG’s data, rounding off the top three ‘workcation’ cities for 2024 is Rio de Janeiro in joint second, which rose from sixth place in last year’s barometer thanks to impressive scores on accommodation, food, transport costs, and affordable yet strong broadband speed. Home to the world-famous carnival, Rio is filled with nightclubs, restaurants, and extensive green spaces. Hybrid workers will benefit from a thriving digital nomad community, bolstered by local government investments to make the city more attractive for remote workers, including citywide 5G coverage and a new digital nomad visa.

New contenders for 2024

International Workplace Group’s Work from Anywhere Barometer also welcomes several newcomers to this year’s list of best working destinations for digital nomads to have on their radar. These include Austin (Texas), Podgorica (Montenegro), Marrakesh (Morocco), and Valletta (Malta).

IWG adds that the ongoing shift in work culture has not only transformed professional attitudes but also broadened the horizons of workers when choosing travel destinations, with 80% stating that the availability of these policies has prompted them to consider destinations they previously wouldn’t have.

“For an increasing number of workers, the days of long daily commutes are over, now that hybrid working offers the opportunity to work wherever we will be the most productive. And thanks to cloud technology, that can be anywhere in the world, provided there’s a high-quality internet connection available,” said International Workplace Group Founder and CEO, Mark Dixon.

He added, “It’s no wonder that more and more individuals are embracing the idea of combining work with travel, whether it’s for a few days tacked on to the end of a vacation, or a few months as a digital nomad. This trend is set to accelerate further, and we will continue to see more and more companies embracing WFA policies to improve employees’ work-life balance and increase their attractiveness as an employer.”